ViperBots FIRST Programs

ViperBots Robotics competes in two divisions of FIRST, the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). Each program has its own team structure, competition requirements, competition dates, and technical requirements.

FTC – FIRST Tech Challenge

The FTC program is focused on design, CAD, and the engineering process.  The game reveal is on September 7, 2024, and the season will last through the end of April.  FTC members are encouraged to enroll in the FTC Technology Applications class to receive additional build time and receive the proper training in shop use, CAD, design and engineering principles. 

ALL FTC members are required to actively participate in FTC robotics, even while participating in other extra-curricular activities.  “Actively participate” means that FTC ViperBots will attend all required scheduled meetings and build sessions as set by the team.  FTC ViperBots that do not meet the minimum requirement for active participation will be placed on a disciplinary contract and/or dismissed from the ViperBots Robotics program.

We understand that unavoidable conflicts may arise during the season.  We expect our ViperBots to communicate conflicts in advance with the sponsors of both organizations so that we can reach a compromise that is in the best interest of both organizations and the student.

PLEASE NOTE:

All rookie FTC members are REQUIRED to attend Training Camp 5/27 - 5/31 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

FRC – FIRST Robotics Challenge

The FRC program is heavily focused on design, CAD, and fabrication.  The season will begin January 4, 2025 and will last through the end of April.  Even though the build season does not begin until January, members will participate in Fall off-season events and required training. FRC students should enroll in the FRC Technology Applications class to receive the proper training in shop use, CAD, design and engineering principles. Exact requirements for the FRC Technology Applications class will be discussed at the REQUIRED FRC parent/student meeting once selections have been made.

Beginning January 6, 2025, all FRC members have mandatory practices during the build season from January through February as well as a modified schedule for practices based on the competition schedule from March – April.  FRC members will not be excused to miss FRC practice or FRC competitions due to conflicts with other extracurricular activities. Exceptions will only be made if potential or known conflicts are communicated to the Lead Advisor AND the Head Coach prior to the start of the January build season and the absence request does not hinder design, production, manufacturing, programming, drive practice,  or competition. Applicants involved in Spring extracurricular activities should consider the FTC program instead of the FRC program. 

PLEASE NOTE:

All rookie FRC members are REQUIRED to attend the FRC Rookie Orientation Day on 5/27 from 9:00 am to noon.
The FRC program is only available to rookies that will be in grades 9-11 for the upcoming season. If you will be applying as a Senior, you will only be considered for the FTC program.